Florida LGBTQ capital gets a new rainbow police car
Wilton Manors is known as the unofficial capital of the LGBTQ community in South Florida and one of the gayfriendliest cities in the U.S.
Now, the Broward County city right next to Fort Lauderdale has a police car that reflects its all-inclusive spirit.
The Wilton Manors Police Department has redesigned a squad car with a giant rainbow –– a longtime symbol of pride for the LGBTQ community. A rainbow decorates each side of the car. The back window reads: “Policing with Pride.”
“This is our way of supporting our Wilton Manors community that is welcoming to all,” said Gary Blocker, the city’s assistant police chief.
The department invites people to take selfies with the colourful patrol car and use the hashtag #wmpd4all on social media postings.
The 2013 Ford Interceptor will remain in the city throughout the year. It’s not the only South Florida patrol car with a rainbow to support the LGBTQ community.
Since 2013, Miami Beach has had a squad car with “POLICE” in rainbow hues. The Ford Crown Victoria is used at community events such as the annual Miami Beach Pride festivities and Veteran’s Day parade.
“We are very proud of our strong relationship with the LGBTQ community,” said Detective Ernesto Rodriguez, the department’s spokesman.
Wilton Manor’s colourful squad car is the latest example of how gay-friendly the town is. In November, voters elected an all-LGBTQ commission, a first in Florida elections.